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Erin Tomlinson, Rita McDonald, Angela Bostelman-Kaczmarek, Arnita Ozgener, Christy Waller, Kindy Hensler
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Rodger Dinwiddie
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Erin Tomlinson, Jamaal Oldham, Jennifer Oldham, Tiffany Elliott, Carnell Elliott
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Andee Rudloff
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Angie Gentry
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Vickie Mertz, Angela Wright, Arnita Ozgener
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Preston Davis, Birdie Loeffler, Josh Curtis, Sam Curtis
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Ashley Herring, Milton White, Vicki Horne, Anne Elizabeth McIntosh
On Tuesday, October 29, STARS put on its second annual Farm to Table(aux) fundraiser at Marathon Music Works.
The event brought together the flavors of local cuisine and the creativity of the Nashville art scene, in support of the nonprofit’s mission to empower youth throughout the region and beyond.
Farm to Table(aux) featured live art installations from local artists including Megan Jordan, Beth Reitmeyer, Woke3, Andy Vastagh, and Andee Rudloff. Guests actively engaged in the creative process throughout the evening.
“This year’s Farm to Table(aux) was a beautiful testament to the power of art and community,” says event co-chair Arnita Ozgener, who also serves as the director of private events for OZ Arts Nashville. “We are grateful for the support of local artists and the community, which helps us continue our vital work in empowering youth.”
The event also featured the presentation of the Troy Gentry Compassion Award, honoring the late musician Troy Gentry, a passionate supporter of STARS. The 2024 award, presented by Troy’s wife, Angie Gentry, recognized Delaney Shelton and Saylor Smith. After the tragic loss of Boston Smith to fentanyl in November 2023, Delaney, Boston’s mother, and Saylor, his sister, shared their story to educate and empower families and the community about the dangers of overdose.
While Farm to Table(aux) highlighted the best of Nashville’s art and cuisine, its primary focus was on raising funds to strengthen and support the STARS programs. Funds raised during the event directly support STARS’ community and school-based programs, which address social and emotional barriers that young people face, such as mental health issues, bullying, and substance abuse.